A judge has dismissed the murder charge against Aaron Spencer, the Republican nominee for Lonoke County sheriff, due to missing evidence and law enforcement misconduct.

Aaron Spencer was accused of killing Michael Fosler, who was charged with sexually assaulting Spencer’s teenage daughter. The dismissal occurred after the judge declared that law enforcement officials lost crucial dashboard camera footage related to the fatal shooting. This missing evidence was deemed a violation of Spencer’s due process rights, leading to the charge’s dismissal.

Judge Ralph Wilson Jr. stated, “The Court finds that conduct by law enforcement was so egregious that dismissal of this case is warranted.”

The incident dates back to October 8, 2024. Spencer discovered his daughter missing from her bedroom. During his search, he found her in a car with Fosler, who was previously charged with sexual assault and released on bond. Spencer’s daughter attempted to leave the vehicle but was restrained by Fosler. Spencer then shot Fosler.

Spencer maintained that he acted to protect his daughter. State prosecutors contended that Spencer had the opportunity to call the police but chose to act in a premeditated manner.